Sumter, SC (WLTX) - Michael Baier is the Orchestra teacher at Alice Drive Middle School in Sumter. He's been teaching for nine years and music is in his blood.

"My mother is a musician. She's an orchestra teacher also and kind of inspired me to go through and do what I do now," Baier said.

He loves the strings of the cello, but plays the violin in class because it's easier to carry.

His student, Molly McMahon, nominated him for News 19's Teacher of the Week.

McMahon said, "Mr. Baier is one of those teachers that really invests their time in you and he's just really passionate . He's so encouraging and I honestly don't think I would be where I am today without him."

Baier says he sees the spark in his students faces.

"It's an easy job when you love it."

f you know a teacher who deserves to be recognized for their hard work in the classroom be sure to send a nomination email to TOW@WLTX.com.